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Hertel M, Makvandi R, Kappler S, Nanke R, Bildhauer P, Saalfeld S, Radicke M, Juhre D, Rose G. Towards a biomechanical breast model to simulate and investigate breast compression and its effects in mammography and tomosynthesis. Phys Med Biol 2023; 68. [PMID: 36893466 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/acc30b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In mammography, breast compression forms an essential part of the examination and is achieved by lowering a compression paddle on the breast. Compression force is mainly used as parameter to estimate the degree of compression. As the force does not consider variations of breast size or tissue composition, over- and undercompression are a frequent result. This causes a highly varying perception of discomfort or even pain in the case of overcompression during the procedure. To develop a holistic, patient specific workflow, as a first step, breast compression needs to be thoroughly understood. The aim is to develop a biomechanical finite element breast model that accurately replicates breast compression in mammography and tomosynthesis and allows in-depth investigation. The current work focuses thereby, as a first step, to replicate especially the correct breast thickness under compression.
Approach: A dedicated method for acquiring ground truth data of uncompressed and compressed breasts within magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is introduced and transferred to the compression within x-ray mammography. Additionally, we created a simulation framework where individual breast models were generated based on MR images. 
Main Results: By fitting the finite element model to the results of the ground truth images, a universal set of material parameters for fat and fibroglandular tissue could be determined. Overall, the breast models showed high agreement in compression thickness with a deviation of less than ten percent from the ground truth. 
Significance: The introduced breast models show a huge potential for a better understanding of the breast compression process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Hertel
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH Forchheim, Siemensstr. 3, Forchheim, 91301, GERMANY
| | - Resam Makvandi
- Otto von Guericke Universität Magdeburg, Universitätsplatz 2, Magdeburg, Sachsen-Anhalt, 39106, GERMANY
| | - Steffen Kappler
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH Forchheim, Siemensstr. 3, Forchheim, Bayern, 91301, GERMANY
| | - Ralf Nanke
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH Forchheim, Siemensstr. 3, Forchheim, Bayern, 91301, GERMANY
| | - Petra Bildhauer
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Karl-Schall-Str. 6, Erlangen, Bayern, 91052, GERMANY
| | - Sylvia Saalfeld
- Otto von Guericke Universität Magdeburg, Universitätsplatz 2, Magdeburg, Sachsen-Anhalt, 39106, GERMANY
| | - Marcus Radicke
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH Forchheim, Siemensstr. 3, Forchheim, Bayern, 91301, GERMANY
| | - Daniel Juhre
- Otto von Guericke Universität Magdeburg, Universitätsplatz 2, Magdeburg, Sachsen-Anhalt, 39106, GERMANY
| | - Georg Rose
- Otto von Guericke Universitat Magdeburg, Universitätsplatz 2, Magdeburg, Sachsen-Anhalt, 39106, GERMANY
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Hertel M, Liu C, Song H, Golatta M, Kappler S, Nanke R, Radicke M, Maier A, Rose G. Clinical prototype implementation enabling an improved day-to-day mammography compression. Phys Med 2023; 106:102524. [PMID: 36641900 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2023.102524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In mammography, breast compression is achieved by lowering a compression paddle on the breast. Despite the directive that compression is needed, there is no concrete guideline on its execution. To estimate the degree of compression, current mammography units only provide compression force and breast thickness as parameters. Therefore, radiographers could be induced to mainly determine the level of compression based on compression force and apply the same value to all breast sizes. In this case, smaller breast sizes are exposed to higher pressure. This results in a highly varying perception of discomfort or even pain during the procedure, depending on the breast size. METHODS To overcome this imbalance, current research results suggest that pressure might be a more qualified parameter for a more uniform compression among all breast sizes. To utilize pressure, the contact area between breast and compression paddle must be determined. In this paper, we present an easy-to-implement prototype enabling a real-time pressure-based measure without the need of direct patient contact. Using an optical camera, the contact area between the breast and the compression paddle is automatically segmented by a deep learning model. RESULTS The model provides a mean pixel accuracy of 96.7% (SD: 2.3%), mean frequency-weighted intersection over union of 88.5% (SD: 6.3%), and a Dice score of 93.6% (SD: 2.2%). The subsequent pressure display is updated more than five times per second which enables the use in clinical routines to set the compression level. CONCLUSION This prototype could help guiding to an improved breast compression routine in mammography procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Hertel
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH, 91301 Forchheim, Germany; Institute for Medical Engineering and Research Campus STIMULATE, Otto-von-Guericke-University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Chang Liu
- Pattern Recognition Lab, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Haobo Song
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH, 91301 Forchheim, Germany.
| | - Michael Golatta
- University Breast Unit, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | | | - Ralf Nanke
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH, 91301 Forchheim, Germany.
| | | | - Andreas Maier
- Pattern Recognition Lab, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Georg Rose
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Research Campus STIMULATE, Otto-von-Guericke-University, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany.
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Hendriks GAGM, Weijers G, Chen C, Hertel M, Lee CY, Dueppenbecker PM, Radicke M, Milkowski A, Hansen HHG, de Korte CL. Comprehensive Comparison of Image Quality Aspects Between Conventional and Plane-Wave Imaging Methods on a Commercial Scanner. IEEE Trans Ultrason Ferroelectr Freq Control 2022; 69:2039-2049. [PMID: 35404814 DOI: 10.1109/tuffc.2022.3165632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Coherent plane-wave compound imaging (CPWCI) is used as alternative for conventional focused imaging (CFI) to increase frame rates linearly with the ratio number of imaging lines to steering angles. In this study, the image quality was compared between CPWCI and CFI, and the effect of steering angles (range and number) and beamforming strategies was evaluated in CPWCI. In automated breast volume scanners (ABVSs), which suffer from reduced volume rates, CPWCI might be an excellent candidate to replace CFI. Therefore, the image quality of CFI currently in ABVS and CPWCI was also compared in an in vivo breast lesion. Images were obtained by a Siemens Sequoia ultrasound system, and two transducers (14L5 and 10L4) in a CIRS multipurpose phantom (040GSE) and a breast lesion. Phantom results showed that contrast sensitivity and resolution, axial resolution, and generalized contrast-to-noise ratio (gCNR; imaging depths <45 mm) were similar for most imaging sequences. CNR (imaging depths ≥45 mm), penetration, and lateral resolution were significantly improved for CPWCI (15 angles) compared to CFI for both transducers. In CPWCI, certain combinations of steering angles and beamforming methods yielded improved gCNR (small angles and delay-and-sum) or lateral resolution (large angles and Lu's-fk). Image quality seemed similar between CPWCI and CFI (three angles incoherent compounded as in ABVS) by visual inspection of the in vivo breast lesion images.
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Schäfgen B, Juskic M, Radicke M, Hertel M, Barr R, Pfob A, Togawa R, Nees J, von Au A, Fastner S, Harcos A, Gomez C, Stieber A, Riedel F, Hennigs A, Sohn C, Heil J, Golatta M. Evaluation of the FUSION-X-US-II prototype to combine automated breast ultrasound and tomosynthesis. Eur Radiol 2021; 31:3712-3720. [PMID: 33313983 PMCID: PMC8128739 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-020-07573-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The FUSION-X-US-II prototype was developed to combine 3D automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) and digital breast tomosynthesis in a single device. We evaluated the performance of ABUS and tomosynthesis in a single examination in a clinical setting. METHODS In this prospective feasibility study, digital breast tomosynthesis and ABUS were performed using the FUSION-X-US-II prototype without any change of the breast position in patients referred for clarification of breast lesions with an indication for tomosynthesis. The tomosynthesis and ABUS images of the prototype were interpreted independently from the clinical standard by a breast diagnostics specialist. Any detected lesion was classified using BI-RADS® scores, and results of the standard clinical routine workup (gold standard) were compared to the result of the separate evaluation of the prototype images. Image quality was rated subjectively and coverage of the breast was measured. RESULTS One hundred one patients received both ABUS and tomosynthesis using the prototype. The duration of the additional ABUS acquisition was 40 to 60 s. Breast coverage by ABUS was approximately 80.0%. ABUS image quality was rated as diagnostically useful in 86 of 101 cases (85.1%). Thirty-three of 34 malignant breast lesions (97.1%) were identified using the prototype. CONCLUSION The FUSION-X-US-II prototype allows a fast ABUS scan in combination with digital breast tomosynthesis in a single device integrated in the clinical workflow. Malignant breast lesions can be localized accurately with direct correlation of ABUS and tomosynthesis images. The FUSION system shows the potential to improve breast cancer screening in the future after further technical improvements. KEY POINTS • The FUSION-X-US-II prototype allows the combination of automated breast ultrasound and digital breast tomosynthesis in a single device without decompression of the breast. • Image quality and coverage of ABUS are sufficient to accurately detect malignant breast lesions. • If tomosynthesis and ABUS should become part of breast cancer screening, the combination of both techniques in one device could offer practical and logistic advantages. To evaluate a potential benefit of a combination of ABUS and tomosynthesis in screening-like settings, further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Schäfgen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marija Juskic
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Richard Barr
- Northeastern Ohio Medical University and Southwoods Imaging, Youngstown, OH, USA
| | - André Pfob
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Riku Togawa
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Juliane Nees
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexandra von Au
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sarah Fastner
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Aba Harcos
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christina Gomez
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anne Stieber
- Department of Radiology, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fabian Riedel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - André Hennigs
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christof Sohn
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joerg Heil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Golatta
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Breast Unit, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Schäfgen B, Juskic M, Heil J, Harcos A, Radicke M, Hertel M, Schütz F, Sohn C, Golatta M. First proof-of-concept evaluation of the FUSION-X-US-II prototype for the performance of automated breast ultrasound in healthy volunteers. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2020. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1717875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- B Schäfgen
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Brustzentrum
| | - M Juskic
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Brustzentrum
| | - J Heil
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Brustzentrum
| | - A Harcos
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Brustzentrum
| | | | | | - F Schütz
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Brustzentrum
| | - C Sohn
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Brustzentrum
| | - M Golatta
- Universitätsfrauenklinik Heidelberg, Brustzentrum
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Emons J, Fasching PA, Wunderle M, Heindl F, Rieger J, Horn F, Pelzer G, Ritter A, Weber T, Radicke M, Polifka I, Wachter DL, Wenkel E, Michel T, Uder M, Hartmann A, Anton G, Beckmann MW, Schulz-Wendtland R, Jud SM. Assessment of the additional clinical potential of X-ray dark-field imaging for breast cancer in a preclinical setup. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2020. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1717890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J Emons
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
| | - PA Fasching
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
| | - M Wunderle
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
| | - F Heindl
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
| | - J Rieger
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics
| | - F Horn
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics
| | - G Pelzer
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics
| | - A Ritter
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics
| | - T Weber
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics
| | | | - I Polifka
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Pathology
| | - DL Wachter
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Pathology
| | - E Wenkel
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Radiologie
| | - T Michel
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics
| | - M Uder
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Radiologie
| | - A Hartmann
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Pathology
| | - G Anton
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics
| | - MW Beckmann
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
| | | | - SM Jud
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
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Emons J, Fasching PA, Wunderle M, Heindl F, Rieger J, Horn F, Pelzer G, Ritter A, Weber T, Radicke M, Polifka I, Wachter DL, Wenkel E, Michel T, Uder M, Hartmann A, Anton G, Beckmann MW, Schulz-Wendtland R, Jud SM. Assessment of the additional clinical potential of X-ray dark-field imaging for breast cancer in a preclinical setup. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2020; 12:1758835920957932. [PMID: 32994806 PMCID: PMC7502853 DOI: 10.1177/1758835920957932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mammography can identify calcifications up to 50–100 μm in size as a surrogate parameter for breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Microcalcifications measuring <50 µm are also associated with breast cancer or DCIS and are frequently not detected on mammography, although they can be detected with dark-field imaging. This study examined whether additional breast examination using X-ray dark-field imaging can increase the detection rate of calcifications. Advances in knowledge: (1) evaluation of additional modality of breast imaging; (2) specific evaluation of breast calcifications. Implications for patient care: the addition of X-ray dark-field imaging to conventional mammography could detect additional calcifications. Methods: Talbot–Lau X-ray phase–contrast imaging and X-ray dark-field imaging were used to acquire images of breast specimens. The radiation dosage with the technique is comparable with conventional mammography. Three X-ray gratings with periods of 5–10 µm between the X-ray tube and the flat-panel detector provide three different images in a single sequence: the conventional attenuation image, differential phase image, and dark-field image. The images were read by radiologists. Radiological findings were marked and examined pathologically. The results were described in a descriptive manner. Results: A total of 81 breast specimens were investigated with the two methods; 199 significant structures were processed pathologically, consisting of 123 benign and 76 malignant lesions (DCIS or invasive breast cancer). X-ray dark-field imaging identified 15 additional histologically confirmed carcinoma lesions that were visible but not declared suspicious on digital mammography alone. Another four malignant lesions that were not visible on mammography were exclusively detected with X-ray dark-field imaging. Conclusions: Adding X-ray dark-field imaging to digital mammography increases the detection rate for breast cancer and DCIS associated lesions with micrometer-sized calcifications. The use of X-ray dark-field imaging may be able to provide more accurate and detailed radiological classification of suspicious breast lesions. Adding X-ray dark-field imaging to mammography may be able to increase the detection rate and improve preoperative planning in deciding between mastectomy or breast-conserving therapy, particularly in patients with invasive lobular breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Emons
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Peter A Fasching
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Universitätsstrasse 21-23, Erlangen 91054, Germany
| | - Marius Wunderle
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Felix Heindl
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Jens Rieger
- Erlangen Center for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Florian Horn
- Erlangen Center for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Pelzer
- Erlangen Center for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andre Ritter
- Erlangen Center for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas Weber
- Erlangen Center for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Iris Polifka
- Institute of Pathology, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David L Wachter
- Institute of Pathology, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Evelyn Wenkel
- Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Thilo Michel
- Erlangen Center for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Uder
- Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gisela Anton
- Erlangen Center for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian M Jud
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
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Emons J, Schulz-Wendtland R, Rieger J, Radicke M, Wachter DL, Anton G, Beckmann MW, Hartmann A, Fasching PA, Jud SM. Dunkelfeld Messung von Brustdrüsengewebe zur Detektion von tumorassoziiertem Mikrokalk. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2020. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1714016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J Emons
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen
| | - R Schulz-Wendtland
- Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen
| | - J Rieger
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen
| | | | - D L Wachter
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen
| | - G Anton
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen
| | - M W Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen
| | - A Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen
| | - P A Fasching
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen
| | - S M Jud
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen
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Ludwig V, Seifert M, Hauke C, Hellbach K, Horn F, Pelzer G, Radicke M, Rieger J, Sutter SM, Michel T, Anton G. Exploration of different x-ray Talbot-Lau setups for dark-field lung imaging examined in a porcine lung. Phys Med Biol 2019; 64:065013. [PMID: 30731447 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ab051c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
X-ray dark-field imaging is a promising technique for lung diagnosis. Due to the alveolar structure of lung tissue, a higher contrast is obtained by the dark-field image compared to the attenuation image. Animal studies indicate an enhancement regarding the detection of lung diseases in early stages. In this publication, we focus on the influence of different Talbot-Lau interferometer specifications while maintaining the x-ray source, sample magnification and detector system. By imaging the same porcine lung with three different grating sets, we analyze the contrast-to-noise ratio of the obtained dark-field images with respect to visibility and correlation length. We demonstrate that relatively large grating periods of the phase and of the analyzer grating are sufficient for high quality lung imaging at reasonable dose levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Ludwig
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
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Emons J, Wunderle M, Hartmann A, Radicke M, Rauh C, Uder M, Gass P, Fasching PA, Langemann H, Beckmann MW, Schulz-Wendtland R, Jud SM. Initial clinical results with a fusion prototype for mammography and three-dimensional ultrasound with a standard mammography system and a standard ultrasound probe. Acta Radiol 2018; 59:1406-1413. [PMID: 29498297 DOI: 10.1177/0284185118762249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Combinations *Equal contributors. of different imaging techniques in fusion devices appear to be associated with improvements in diagnostic assessment. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of using an automated standard three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound (US) device fused with standard mammography for the first time in breast cancer patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS Digital mammograms and 3D automated US images were obtained in 23 patients with highly suspicious breast lesions. A recently developed fusion machine consisting of an ABVS 3D US transducer from an Acuson S2000 machine and a conventional Mammomat Inspiration device (both Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Erlangen, Germany) were used for the purpose. The feasibility of the examinations, imaging coverage, and patients' experience of the procedure were examined. RESULTS In 15 out of 19 patients, the region of interest (ROI) with the tumor marked in the mammogram was visible on US. The examination was experienced positively by the patients, with no unexpected pain or injury. The examination was time-saving and well tolerated. CONCLUSION In conclusion, we have shown initial clinical feasibility of an US/radiography fusion prototype with good localization and evaluation of the ROIs. The combined examination was well tolerated. The simultaneous evaluation with mammography and US imaging may be able to improve detection and reduce examiner-related variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Emons
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marius Wunderle
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Claudia Rauh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Uder
- Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, Erlangen University Hospital, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Paul Gass
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter A Fasching
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hanna Langemann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian M Jud
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Emons J, Wunderle M, Emons PA, Heindl F, Rieger J, Horn F, Pelzer G, Ritter A, Weber T, Radicke M, Polifka I, Wachter DL, Wenkel E, Michel T, Uder M, Hartmann A, Anton G, Beckmann MW, Schulz-Wendtland R, Jud SM. Assessment of clinical potential of X-ray dark-field imaging for breast cancer. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1671218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J Emons
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Frauenklinik, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - M Wunderle
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Frauenklinik, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - PA Emons
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Frauenklinik, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - F Heindl
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Frauenklinik, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - J Rieger
- Physikalisches Institut, Lehrstuhl für Experimentalphysik (Teilchen- und Astroteilchenphysik), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - F Horn
- Physikalisches Institut, Lehrstuhl für Experimentalphysik (Teilchen- und Astroteilchenphysik), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - G Pelzer
- Physikalisches Institut, Lehrstuhl für Experimentalphysik (Teilchen- und Astroteilchenphysik), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - A Ritter
- Physikalisches Institut, Lehrstuhl für Experimentalphysik (Teilchen- und Astroteilchenphysik), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - T Weber
- Physikalisches Institut, Lehrstuhl für Experimentalphysik (Teilchen- und Astroteilchenphysik), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - M Radicke
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - I Polifka
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Pathologie, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - DL Wachter
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Pathologie, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - E Wenkel
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Radiologie, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - T Michel
- Physikalisches Institut, Lehrstuhl für Experimentalphysik (Teilchen- und Astroteilchenphysik), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - M Uder
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Radiologie, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - A Hartmann
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Pathologie, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - G Anton
- Physikalisches Institut, Lehrstuhl für Experimentalphysik (Teilchen- und Astroteilchenphysik), Erlangen, Deutschland
| | - MW Beckmann
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Frauenklinik, Erlangen, Deutschland
| | | | - SM Jud
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Frauenklinik, Erlangen, Deutschland
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Seifert M, Ludwig V, Gallersdörfer M, Hauke C, Hellbach K, Horn F, Pelzer G, Radicke M, Rieger J, Sutter SM, Michel T, Anton G. Single-shot Talbot-Lau x-ray dark-field imaging of a porcine lung applying the moiré imaging approach. Phys Med Biol 2018; 63:185010. [PMID: 30117437 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/aadafe] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Talbot-Lau x-ray imaging provides additionally to the conventional attenuation image, two further images: the differential phase-contrast image which is especially sensitive to differences in refractive properties and the dark-field image which is showing the x-ray scattering properties of the object. Thus, in the dark-field image sub-pixeled object information can be observed. As it has been shown in recent studies, this is of special interest for lung imaging. Changes in the alveoli structure, which are in the size of one detector pixel, can be seen in the dark-field images. A fast acquisition process is crucial to avoid motion artifacts due to heartbeat and breathing of the patient. Using moiré imaging the images can be acquired with a single-shot exposure. Nevertheless, the spatial resolution is reduced compared to the phase-stepping acquisition. We evaluate the results of both imaging techniques towards their feasibility in clinical routine. Furthermore, we analyse the influence of artificial linear object movement on the image quality, in order to simulate the heartbeat of a patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Seifert
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91058 Erlangen, Germany
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Hauke C, Anton G, Hellbach K, Leghissa M, Meinel FG, Mertelmeier T, Michel T, Radicke M, Sutter SM, Weber T, Ritschl L. Enhanced reconstruction algorithm for moiré artifact suppression in Talbot–Lau x-ray imaging. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 63:135018. [DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/aacb07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Hauke C, Bartl P, Leghissa M, Ritschl L, Sutter SM, Weber T, Zeidler J, Freudenberger J, Mertelmeier T, Radicke M, Michel T, Anton G, Meinel FG, Baehr A, Auweter S, Bondesson D, Gaass T, Dinkel J, Reiser M, Hellbach K. A preclinical Talbot-Lau prototype for x-ray dark-field imaging of human-sized objects. Med Phys 2018; 45:2565-2571. [DOI: 10.1002/mp.12889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- C. Hauke
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics; FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg; 91058 Erlangen Germany
| | - P. Bartl
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
| | - M. Leghissa
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
| | - L. Ritschl
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
| | - S. M. Sutter
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
| | - T. Weber
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
| | - J. Zeidler
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
| | | | | | - M. Radicke
- Siemens Healthcare GmbH; 91301 Forchheim Germany
| | - T. Michel
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics; FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg; 91058 Erlangen Germany
| | - G. Anton
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics; FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg; 91058 Erlangen Germany
| | - F. G. Meinel
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology; University of Rostock Medical Center; 18057 Rostock Germany
| | - A. Baehr
- Department of Veterinary Science; LMU Munich; 85764 Oberschleissheim Germany
| | - S. Auweter
- Department of Radiology; University Hospital; LMU Munich; 80336 Munich Germany
| | - D. Bondesson
- Department of Radiology; University Hospital; LMU Munich; 80336 Munich Germany
| | - T. Gaass
- Department of Radiology; University Hospital; LMU Munich; 80336 Munich Germany
| | - J. Dinkel
- Department of Radiology; University Hospital; LMU Munich; 80336 Munich Germany
| | - M. Reiser
- Department of Radiology; University Hospital; LMU Munich; 80336 Munich Germany
| | - K. Hellbach
- Department of Radiology; University Hospital; LMU Munich; 80336 Munich Germany
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Schaefgen B, Heil J, Barr R, Radicke M, Harcos A, Gomez A, Stieber A, Andre H, Von Au A, Spratte J, Rauch G, Rom J, Schütz F, Sohn C, Golatta M. Initial results of the FUSION-X-US prototype combining 3D automated breast ultrasound and tomosynthesis. Eur J Cancer 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(18)30694-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Schulz-Wendtland R, Jud SM, Fasching PA, Hartmann A, Radicke M, Rauh C, Uder M, Wunderle M, Gass P, Langemann H, Beckmann MW, Emons J. A Standard Mammography Unit - Standard 3D Ultrasound Probe Fusion Prototype: First Results. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2017; 77:679-685. [PMID: 28713173 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-107034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 03/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The combination of different imaging modalities through the use of fusion devices promises significant diagnostic improvement for breast pathology. The aim of this study was to evaluate image quality and clinical feasibility of a prototype fusion device (fusion prototype) constructed from a standard tomosynthesis mammography unit and a standard 3D ultrasound probe using a new method of breast compression. MATERIALS AND METHODS Imaging was performed on 5 mastectomy specimens from patients with confirmed DCIS or invasive carcinoma (BI-RADS ™ 6). For the preclinical fusion prototype an ABVS system ultrasound probe from an Acuson S2000 was integrated into a MAMMOMAT Inspiration (both Siemens Healthcare Ltd) and, with the aid of a newly developed compression plate, digital mammogram and automated 3D ultrasound images were obtained. RESULTS The quality of digital mammogram images produced by the fusion prototype was comparable to those produced using conventional compression. The newly developed compression plate did not influence the applied x-ray dose. The method was not more labour intensive or time-consuming than conventional mammography. From the technical perspective, fusion of the two modalities was achievable. CONCLUSION In this study, using only a few mastectomy specimens, the fusion of an automated 3D ultrasound machine with a standard mammography unit delivered images of comparable quality to conventional mammography. The device allows simultaneous ultrasound - the second important imaging modality in complementary breast diagnostics - without increasing examination time or requiring additional staff.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sebastian M Jud
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter A Fasching
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Claudia Rauh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Uder
- Institute of Diagnostic Radiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marius Wunderle
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Paul Gass
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hanna Langemann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julius Emons
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Rauh C, Fasching PA, Jud SM, Radicke M, Linde I, Wenkel E, Wittenberg T, Wagner F, Zöhrer F, Georgii J, Hahn H, Brehm B, Uder M, Beckmann MW, Schulz-Wendtland R. Dreidimensionale Beurteilung der Brustzusammensetzung mit dem Automatisierten Brust Volumen Scanner (ABVS). Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2014. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1388486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Anton G, Bayer F, Beckmann MW, Durst J, Fasching PA, Haas W, Hartmann A, Michel T, Pelzer G, Radicke M, Rauh C, Rieger J, Ritter A, Schulz-Wendtland R, Uder M, Wachter DL, Weber T, Wenkel E, Wucherer L. Grating-based darkfield imaging of human breast tissue. Z Med Phys 2013; 23:228-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.zemedi.2013.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2012] [Revised: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Michel T, Rieger J, Anton G, Bayer F, Beckmann MW, Durst J, Fasching PA, Haas W, Hartmann A, Pelzer G, Radicke M, Rauh C, Ritter A, Sievers P, Schulz-Wendtland R, Uder M, Wachter DL, Weber T, Wenkel E, Zang A. On a dark-field signal generated by micrometer-sized calcifications in phase-contrast mammography. Phys Med Biol 2013. [PMID: 23552903 DOI: 10.1088/0031‐9155/58/8/2713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We show that a distribution of micrometer-sized calcifications in the human breast which are not visible in clinical x-ray mammography at diagnostic dose levels can produce a significant dark-field signal in a grating-based x-ray phase-contrast imaging setup with a tungsten anode x-ray tube operated at 40 kVp. A breast specimen with invasive ductal carcinoma was investigated immediately after surgery by Talbot-Lau x-ray interferometry with a design energy of 25 keV. The sample contained two tumors which were visible in ultrasound and contrast-agent enhanced MRI but invisible in clinical x-ray mammography, in specimen radiography and in the attenuation images obtained with the Talbot-Lau interferometer. One of the tumors produced significant dark-field contrast with an exposure of 0.85 mGy air-kerma. Staining of histological slices revealed sparsely distributed grains of calcium phosphate with sizes varying between 1 and 40 μm in the region of this tumor. By combining the histological investigations with an x-ray wave-field simulation we demonstrate that a corresponding distribution of grains of calcium phosphate in the form of hydroxylapatite has the ability to produce a dark-field signal which would-to a substantial degree-explain the measured dark-field image. Thus we have found the appearance of new information (compared to attenuation and differential phase images) in the dark-field image. The second tumor in the same sample did not contain a significant fraction of these very fine calcification grains and was invisible in the dark-field image. We conclude that some tumors which are invisible in x-ray absorption mammography might be detected in the x-ray dark-field image at tolerable dose levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo Michel
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics (ECAP), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erwin-Rommel-Str 1, D-91058 Erlangen, Germany.
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20
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Michel T, Rieger J, Anton G, Bayer F, Beckmann MW, Durst J, Fasching PA, Haas W, Hartmann A, Pelzer G, Radicke M, Rauh C, Ritter A, Sievers P, Schulz-Wendtland R, Uder M, Wachter DL, Weber T, Wenkel E, Zang A. On a dark-field signal generated by micrometer-sized calcifications in phase-contrast mammography. Phys Med Biol 2013; 58:2713-32. [PMID: 23552903 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/58/8/2713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We show that a distribution of micrometer-sized calcifications in the human breast which are not visible in clinical x-ray mammography at diagnostic dose levels can produce a significant dark-field signal in a grating-based x-ray phase-contrast imaging setup with a tungsten anode x-ray tube operated at 40 kVp. A breast specimen with invasive ductal carcinoma was investigated immediately after surgery by Talbot-Lau x-ray interferometry with a design energy of 25 keV. The sample contained two tumors which were visible in ultrasound and contrast-agent enhanced MRI but invisible in clinical x-ray mammography, in specimen radiography and in the attenuation images obtained with the Talbot-Lau interferometer. One of the tumors produced significant dark-field contrast with an exposure of 0.85 mGy air-kerma. Staining of histological slices revealed sparsely distributed grains of calcium phosphate with sizes varying between 1 and 40 μm in the region of this tumor. By combining the histological investigations with an x-ray wave-field simulation we demonstrate that a corresponding distribution of grains of calcium phosphate in the form of hydroxylapatite has the ability to produce a dark-field signal which would-to a substantial degree-explain the measured dark-field image. Thus we have found the appearance of new information (compared to attenuation and differential phase images) in the dark-field image. The second tumor in the same sample did not contain a significant fraction of these very fine calcification grains and was invisible in the dark-field image. We conclude that some tumors which are invisible in x-ray absorption mammography might be detected in the x-ray dark-field image at tolerable dose levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo Michel
- Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics (ECAP), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erwin-Rommel-Str 1, D-91058 Erlangen, Germany.
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21
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Radicke M, Nanke R, Mertelmeier T. Technical Overview of Diagnostic Methods for Breast Cancer Detection. BIOMED ENG-BIOMED TE 2012. [DOI: 10.1515/bmt-2012-4347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Radicke
- Siemens AG Healthcare, Erlangen, Germany
| | - R. Nanke
- Siemens AG Healthcare, Erlangen, Germany
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22
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M. Radicke
- Siemens AG Healthcare, 91050 Erlangen, Germany
| | - A. Jerebko
- Siemens AG Healthcare, 91050 Erlangen, Germany
| | - R. Nanke
- Siemens AG Healthcare, 91050 Erlangen, Germany
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Mende J, Wild J, Ulucay D, Radicke M, Kofahl AL, Weber B, Krieg R, Maier K. Acoustic radiation force contrast in MRI: detection of calcifications in tissue-mimicking phantoms. Med Phys 2011; 37:6347-56. [PMID: 21302792 DOI: 10.1118/1.3512806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Mammography is a widely used tool for the screening of breast cancer, and calcifications are a common finding in most mammograms. The location, size, number, morphology, and distribution of calcifications are an important information to differentiate a benign lesion from probably malignant pathologies. Calcifications are not detectable with a standard dynamic contrast enhanced breast MRI. The authors present a novel method for the detection and imaging of calcifications in breast tissue without ionizing radiation or contrast agents. METHODS Measurements of localized tissue displacement in phantoms due to applied acoustic radiation force were performed. This displacement was imaged with a displacement sensitive spin-echo MRI sequence. Pieces of eggshell that represent calcifications were embedded in tissue-mimicking agarose phantoms. The sizes of the calcifications were 0.8 x 0.8 x 0.4, 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.4, and 2 x 3 x 0.4 mm3. The calcifications were scanned with ultrasound (U.S.) at 2.5 MHz and intensities up to I(spta) =7.18 W/cm2. The U.S. beam was moved inside the phantom by a computer-controlled three-dimensional hydraulic positioning system. The U.S. beam was scanned over the two smaller calcifications with the displacement sensitivity of the MRI sequence parallel to the U.S. beam path. Grayscale coded maps of the displacement scans are presented. For the 0.8 x 0.8 x 0.4 mm3 calcification, the U.S. intensities were varied. Finite element simulations were performed to verify if the experiments complied with theory. RESULTS The authors found that the displacement caused by the U.S. is increased at the position of the calcification. The area of increased displacement is at least twice as large as the calcification itself. The simulations show this increase in displacement and area at the position of the calcification. When changing the displacement sensitivity direction to perpendicular to the U.S. beam, a crossed black and white four-leaf clover is visible at the position of the calcification. CONCLUSIONS The U.S. is scattered and reflected by the calcifications. This leads to the increased displacement which is transmitted to the surrounding material because of the elastic coupling between the calcification and the agarose material. Due to the high differences in acoustic impedance and elastic properties between the surrounding tissue and the calcification, even the detection of pieces smaller than the resolution of the MRI scanner is possible. The acoustic radiation force contrast in MR phase-difference images offers a positive signal for calcifications from a smooth background in phantoms. This method offers a possibility of differentiating qualitatively and quantitatively hard calcifications from stiffer inclusions such as tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mende
- Helmholtz-Institut für Strahlen und Kernphysik, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
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Radicke M, Mende J, Kofahl AL, Wild J, Ulucay D, Habenstein B, Deimling M, Trautner P, Weber B, Maier K. Acoustic radiation contrast in MR images for breast cancer diagnostics--initial phantom study. Ultrasound Med Biol 2011; 37:253-261. [PMID: 21257089 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2010.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Revised: 10/29/2010] [Accepted: 11/08/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic radiation contrast in magnetic resonance images is an approach to visualize the changes in ultrasonic loss and viscoelastic changes of the sample with the resolution of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. By irradiating ultrasound (US) into a tissue-mimicking sample, a displacement along the US beam path caused by the acoustic radiation force is obtained. This displacement varies with the US intensity, the duration of irradiation, the US attenuation and the viscoelastic properties of the sample. US pulses of 2.5 MHz with a duration of 20 ms and an intensity of <17 W/cm(2) are used. An MRI sequence was programmed to produce images in which the magnitude of the displacement is visualized by gray value changes. In addition, a finite element simulation of the measurements was performed to demonstrate the feasibility of the method. Through examination of the measurements and the simulations, information about viscoelastic changes was achieved. In this work, measurements on different breast phantoms are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Radicke
- Helmholtz-Institut für Strahlen- und Kernphysik, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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Radicke M, Engelbertz A, Habenstein B, Lewerenz M, Oehms O, Trautner P, Weber B, Wrede S, Maier K. New image contrast method in magnetic resonance imaging via ultrasound. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s10751-008-9628-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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